New Ohio law allows free samples of beer, wine

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A new state law will allow Ohio retailers to hand out free samples of beer and wine.

Existing state law allows sampling of beer, wine and spirits at retailer such as grocery stores and wine shops, but customers have to pay for their samples.

The Dayton Daily News (http://bit.ly/1iI3Of4 ) reports that the new measure - which takes effect July 10 - allows retailers to host free tastings. But it preserves a minimum 50-cents-per-sample charge for liquor stronger than 42 proof.

State Sen. Jim Hughes, a Columbus Republican who sponsored the legislation, says the law will lead to more sales, more state revenue and "ultimately aid in job creation."

Hughes says no opposition emerged to the bill as it made its way through the Legislature.